Thursday, March 28, 2024

Special air quality statement issued for most of Vancouver Island

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B.C.’s environment ministry has issued a ‘Special air quality statement‘ for Vancouver Island.

The advisory is due to high concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) due to wildfires outside of the region.

The following areas are affected:

  • Greater Victoria
  • Vancouver Island
  • Southern Gulf Islands

During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour.

Information about real-time air quality readings for Greater Victoria and the rest of Vancouver Island communities be found here.

According to B.C. Wildfire Service, two of three fires sparked by lightning in Strathcona Provincial Park are under control in central Vancouver Island.

The Coastal Fire Centre says one of those fires is still not under control, but suppression efforts are ongoing and the fire is estimated to be 0.4 hectares in size.

Tips

  • Stay inside if you have breathing difficulties
  • Find an indoor place that’s cool and ventilated.
  • Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help.
  • If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air.
  • If your home isn’t air-conditioned, consider going to a public place (library, shopping mall, recreation centre) that is air-conditioned.
  • Avoid roads with heavy traffic
  • Avoid areas with wood smoke
  • Stay cool and drink plenty of water
  • “Manage” any asthma, chronic respiratory disease or heart failure
  • If symptoms continue to be bothersome, seek medical attention

And if you have chronic underlying medical conditions:

  • Stay in a cool, air-conditioned environment
  • Reduce indoor sources of pollution, such as smoking and vacuuming
  • Run an air cleaner. HEPA filters can help reduce indoor particulate levels
  • Take shelter in air-conditioned buildings

Heat Warning still in effect

Environment Canada has extended the heat advisory as a summertime ridge of high pressure remains anchored offshore.

This period of hot weather is likely to end on Tuesday as cooler marine air gradually pushes onto the coast.

Monday’s temperatures are forecast to reach 29℃, with Tuesday and Wednesday reaching 26℃ and 23℃, respectively.

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Victoria Buzz Staffhttps://www.victoriabuzz.com
Your inside source for Greater Victoria happenings. Established in 2012.

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